With the rising popularity of comfortable shoes and the runway's penchant for preppy style, it should come as no surprise the loafer is undoubtedly the shoe of the moment.
Practical and super cool, the style once reserved mostly for workwear is now a mainstay on the fashion circuit and suitable for everything from the office to date night.
Prada cemented the chunky loafer's place among the street style set with the launch of the Monolith, but for those who don’t favour a lug sole, you might find a classic pair of penny loafers more wearable, particularly for every day. First made popular in the 1950s, they’re categorised by their moccasin, slip-on style and horizontal strap (or saddle) across the instep.
Whether you’re looking for a sleek pair Gucci-style or a Prada-esque chunky pair, scroll on for the best loafers for women to shop now.
The Gucci loafers: Gucci Jordaan Horsebit-Detailed Loafers
The Prada loafers: Prada Monolith Loafers
The suede loafers: M&S Suede Trim Loafers
The penny loafers: H&M Loafers
The chunky loafers: & Other Stories Chunky Leather Loafers
Celebrities wearing loafers
Loafers have long been a favourite of Hailey Bieber who has proven their versatility by styling them with wide-leg trousers, mini skirts and blazer dresses. She loves her Eytys and Prada loafers and even has a pair from high street brand Vagabond.
Loafers are also synonymous with Sienna Miller who has been wearing them for years. She mostly styles them with off-duty denim and has the Gucci Brixon loafers in both black and red. I'd love to raid her shoe collection, which includes a classic black pair by Khaite and a white slip-on style from Tory Burch.
More recently I spotted Elsa Hosk in a pair of black quilted Chanel loafers and a tailored linen two-piece from her own fashion line. The supermodel has previously stepped out in a chunky pair, adding edge to an all-white trouser suit.
How I chose the best loafers for women
- Variety: Both chunky loafers and sleeker styles are very much on trend so my edit includes a mix of the two.
- Price: From designer to high street, I've found the most coveted loafers worn by celebrities as well as affordable pairs that cost less than £25.
- Appropriate for the office: Keeping comfort and versatility in mind, many of these loafers are practical enough to wear to work.